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Job Hunting Tips for Adults with Aspergers and High-Functioning Autism

When you were little, people probably asked, "What do you want to do when you grow up?" Maybe you said a firefighter, or an astronaut. Maybe you said an actor, or a lawyer, or a doctor. With starry eyes, you dreamed of the day you would live in a rich mansion, with maids and butlers. Then, a career seemed like something that would happen a lifetime away. But, now it’s time to choose.

Your interests have probably changed. Finding the right career for you can be difficult, but not impossible. Currently, many Aspies are looking for full-time jobs, but their gifts are not recognized. Jobs need to be chosen that make use of the strengths of Aspies. Most have very poor short-term working memory, but have a better long-term memory than neurotypicals.

Here are some job hunting tips:

1. Before you start applying for jobs ensure you know what you're looking for. A good job search is a focused job search. Make sure to tailor you Resume or CV according to job position that you are applying for.

2. Don't apply for job you aren't qualified for. One of the worst things is lying on your Resume. You might ruin your chances with a company for a job you are qualified for in the future.

3. Find a company that you are interested in working for. Look at their job listings and see what interests you. For example, if you like FaceBook, then you could look at their job listings and see what they offer. This will help a lot!

4. If you have an idea of what you want to do, read up on it! Head for the library, or surf the web. Read as much as you can about your career choice. If you decide you chose wrong, analyze your skills again. Talk with a parent, friend, or professor about what they think.

5. Keep in touch with people who can positively influence your job search and career. In your future career pursuit, simple reference letter can be of crucial importance.

6. Know who you are, and not just your name:

Are you cheerful, bubbly, and a people-person?

Do you prefer working by yourself?

Do you love to get out a saw and wood and create projects?

What are your interests?

What skills do you possess?

Spend an hour in a private place, or get together with a friend. Talk about the things you love. Write them down, and analyze them when you're done. See if you can put together an idea.

7. Manage your references. Don't assume there isn't such a thing as a bad reference. There is. And it can cost you jobs.

8. Plan your career with a long term focus. Short term gain can cause long term pain.

9. Take command of your career. Don't rely on other people to get the job for you. Nobody knows you better than yourself, just do it.

10. Try to learn about why you don't get every job you apply for. Learn from your mistakes.

11. Utilize several different job search techniques and do each of them well. Don't put all your eggs in one basket.

12. Be patient with the process - you can do it! I've got confidence in you!! Now get going!!!